If you are missing a tooth or multiple teeth, it’s important that you consider getting dental implants. Dental implants serve as artificial tooth roots that will anchor dental restorations into place, meaning a single tooth, a dental bridge, or full dentures. Since implant dentistry involves artificial tooth roots being placed directly into your bone and soft tissue structures, the likelihood of bone loss and gum recession is greatly reduced is not eliminated.

When you visit a skilled Washington DC cosmetic dentist such as Dr. Martin Abel and Dr. Shannon Abel, your candidacy for dental implants will be assessed. If you are a candidate and receive dental implants, it is important that you follow their instructions carefully to ensure that your dental implants are well cared for and remain healthy through every step of the dental implants process. Right now, we’d like to briefly go over the basics of the dental implants process and how you should go about caring for your teeth.

When you first get the Washington DC dental implants surgically placed, you should not clean them with a toothbrush as the gum tissue and area surrounding the implant will be very sensitive. You should instead rinse your mouth with the mouthwash that you are given or suggested to use.

As healing progresses, your dentist will then allow you to brush your teeth as normal. You should brush your dental restorations as you would your regular teeth. It’s a good idea to get a soft bristle toothbrush, however, since these bristles will be gentler on your teeth and less likely to harm your gums. For cleaning the abutment of the dental implant, you may be given a small toothbrush or instructed to purchase one. Flossing will also be essential to keeping your dental implant healthy and clean. Be sure to floss your dental restorations and your dental implant abutments.

In addition to the above, it’s best if you schedule some additional professional cleanings at our office after your dental implants are placed. This will help ensure a good deep cleaning, one that is thorough and removes any potential plaque build up or food particles.

To learn more about your eligibility for dental implants and your options for dealing with missing teeth, be sure to contact our Rockland, Maryland cosmetic dentistry practice today. We look forward to hearing from you.